Rhinoplasty questions answered by board-certified surgeons

01: How long should I stay in Iran to get my rhinoplasty done?

You will need to stay around 7 to 10 days in Iran to get your nose surgery done. You will be taken good care of during this whole time. Your doctor will remove the splint from your nose after 6-7 days from the operation date. A tape will be put on your nose and you can fly back home afterwards.

02: How long should I wear tape after revision rhinoplasty?

After revision rhinoplasty, the tape needs to be left on the nose for the same amount of time as the primary surgery. Just as with primary nose job, you should leave the tape on for about 1 to 2 months after removing the cast. For patients with abnormal crookedness, this period might extend to 3 to 5 months.

03: When can I return to work after rhinoplasty?

Patients with a desk job can go back to work after around 9-14 days. However, you should follow the doctor’s orders and stick to the post-op aftercare tips even at work.

For more details, please read our article: rhinoplasty recovery timeline.

04: When can I exercise after a nose surgery?

When it comes to physical activities, you should be patient and careful as to when and how you can get back to exercising after rhinoplasty. For at least 2 weeks after the surgery, you are not allowed to do any workouts or exercises, but to walk. Lifting heavy objects is also prohibited. Within the 3rd to 6th week, you can slowly begin to do low-impact activities such as biking. After 3-6 months, you can freely go back to high-impact exercises and resume your gym life.

05: What is the difference between closed and open rhinoplasty?

There are two approaches to nose surgery: open and closed. The main difference between the two methods is the type of incision the surgeon makes in the nose.

Closed rhinoplasty involves internal or endonasal incisions only, which means that there is no cut on the external surface of the nose. This makes close rhinoplasty a more delicate procedure that requires that the surgeon doing it have a high degree of expertise.

Open rhinoplasty, on the other hand, involves an incision across the columella, which is the soft tissue separating the nostrils. These external incisions allow the surgeon to lift the skin of the nose to have full control over the underlying structure of the nose including the bone and cartilage. This method allows for bigger modifications. It is noteworthy that if the patient needs to get his/her nose wings smaller or his/her nostril asymmetry corrected, the surgeon may need to make a separate type of incision around the nose wings (ala), no matter if the open or closed technique is used. In other words, making incisions in the fold between nose wings and cheeks isn’t a factor to categorize a rhinoplasty as ‘open’.

All in all, choosing the surgical technique depends on the needs of the patient and the preference of the surgeon. For example, in cases that the nose needs less change and the patient wants a more natural result, the surgeon usually does the surgery with the closed method, while in cases with more than one structural problem, the open approach is preferred.

For more information, please go to: Open rhinoplasty vs. closed rhinoplasty.

06: How long after revision rhinoplasty can I see the final results?

About 12 months after revision rhinoplasty, the swelling will go down and the final results can be observed.

07: How long do I need to stay in hospital after having rhinoplasty?

In general, rhinoplasty patients are not required to stay in the hospital after their nose surgery. The operation lasts around 1 or 2 hours and patients can go home whenever they wake up. However, if the surgery is a complex one or when the patient suffers from a certain disease like heart diseases, he/she may stay for one or two nights to be taken care of after the surgery. Moreover, when rhinoplasty is carried out along with another procedure like chin surgery (at the same time), there would be an overnight stay.

08: How long does bruising last after rhinoplasty?

It is possible that the area around your eyes (your eyelids) turn into blue and black after nose job. This bruising is normal and will disappear within 2-3 weeks.

09: When does swelling go away after nose job?

For around 1 to 2 weeks, eyelids may be swollen after rhinoplasty. Putting cold compress on the area, taking anti-inflammatory medications, and keeping your head and neck in the right position alleviate the swelling more quickly. Your nose may also be swollen which is normal and more probable. This swelling will reduce gradually within 1 month. However, you should wait up to 6-12 months to see the final results and final shape of your nose (without any swelling).

10: Is secondary rhinoplasty performed using open or closed technique?

Secondary rhinoplasty is usually performed through open technique. In some cases that few modifications are needed, closed rhinoplasty might be performed.

11: When is my splint removed after rhinoplasty?

After nose job, a plaster splint would be put on the nose to help it heal better. You will visit your doctor after 6 or 7 days for splint or cast removal. In this appointment, the doctor will remove the splint and will use a tape which you can later either remove or replace it with another tape.

In case the patient’s nose is bleeding after the nose surgery, the doctor may also put a tampon or nasal drip pad in the nostrils. They can be removed once the bleeding is finished.

For more information, read our blog post: A guide to a smooth recovery after nose surgery.

12: How long should I wear a tape after my rhinoplasty?

After the splint is removed, your doctor will tape your nose. This tape helps the swelling to subside more quickly and improves the final shape of your nose. Depending on the patient’s condition and skin type, patients are instructed to wear the tape for around 1 to 2 months. For the first two weeks and for better results, you need to have the tape on your nose all the time (24 hours a day). After this time, you are allowed to remove the tape once in a while. By the end of the second month, you will no need to wear the tape at all.

13: When is a bone graft used in rhinoplasty?

Doctors use bone or cartilage grafts for rhinoplasty to shape the nose much better. Whether you need a graft or not will be determined by your doctor during your consultation appointment. For those who need grafting, usually the graft is taken out from the septum. But in some cases, when the patient’s nose does not have enough cartilage (e.g. in revision rhinoplasties), the surgeon may take it from the patient’s ears or ribs. If the patient cannot provide the necessary cartilage graft, synthetic implants can be used instead. Using implants will increase the price of your surgery.

14: Should I apply cold or warm compress after my rhinoplasty?

Applying cold or warm compresses can help you recover faster after rhinoplasty. Cold compress reduces the swelling around your eyes and nose. Apply it during the first and second day after your nose job. Warm compresses can reduce bruising. You can put them on your skin 48 hours after the surgery. However, please make sure that you press the compress on your nose gently.

For more post-operative nose job tips, please read our blog post: dos and don’ts for quick recovery after rhinoplasty

15: How many times can I get revision rhinoplasty?

Usually, it is not recommended to undergo revision rhinoplasty more than twice. The risk of nasal skin necrosis increases from the fourth surgery forward. Hence, we do not recommend revision rhinoplasty in such cases.

16: Who is a good candidate for rhinoplasty and who is not?

You are a good candidate for rhinoplasty if: 1- You are healthy (mentally and physically), 2- You’re between 17 to 60 years old, and 3- You are a non-smoker or at least you can quit smoking for some time.
But, people with a bleeding disorder like hemophilia should not undergo this surgery. Also, if you are taking blood thinners routinely and you’re not allowed to stop them for a 2 to 3 days, rhinoplasty is not your option.
Patients suffering from heart or lung diseases need to consult with their doctor to see whether they can get a rhinoplasty done. Usually, they are not considered as good candidates for a cosmetic nose job. All in all, to determine your eligibility, you should consult with an experienced doctor and submit a detailed medical history to receive an exact opinion in this respect.

17: Can I get a nose job before I’m 17?

You need to wait until you are 17 and more to go through a rhinoplasty surgery.

18: What can I do if I’m not satisfied with my nose job results?

Patients should wait at least for 2 to 6 months to see the final results of their rhinoplasty. After this time and if you’re unhappy with your nose shape, you should consult with your doctor as you may need to undergo a second surgery. However, please note that you need to wait for 1 year to be able to go with a revision rhinoplasty.

19: Does revision rhinoplasty cost more than primary rhinoplasty?

Usually, revision rhinoplasty costs more than primary rhinoplasty. The duration of the surgery and its complexity are also higher with secondary nose job. For a more precise pricing, tailored to your needs and expectations, please contact our team of healthcare professionals. They will provide you with free consultation as well as quotation for the cost of the procedure.

20: How can I clean my nose after a rhinoplasty?

After your operation, you should be gentle with your nose and listen to your doctor’s instructions carefully. To clean your nose, your doctor will recommend you to wash it with a saline solution and continue doing so for 3 to 4 months. However, it is imperative to wash your nose for the first week after your surgery. Saline solution washes away any blood clots, helping you to breathe easily.

21: Will I have breathing difficulty after rhinoplasty?

You may have breathing difficulty for 1 to 3 months after getting a nose job as your nose is swollen. During this time, you can breathe through your mouth instead of your nose. If you didn’t get better in breathing gradually, you should consult with your doctor.

22: When can I see the final results of my rhinoplasty?

You should take care of your nose for around 6 months after the surgery and give it time to recover. After 6 to 12 months, you can expect to see the final shape of your nose as the swelling has gone away and your septum has healed. If you have a bony nose, the results show up quicker, while a fleshy nose needs more time to heal and the final results are less predictable.

23: Is grafting needed in revision rhinoplasty?

Depending on your case and whether your nasal cartilage is drooping, bone graft can be used to restore nasal structure. Read more about this surgery on revision rhinoplasty in Iran.

24: When can I go to gym after my nose surgery?

For 2 weeks after the surgery, you should avoid any physical activities which cause an adrenaline rush. After this time, you can slowly begin to do yoga. After around two months, you can do low-impact exercises like running short distances, bending your head, and lifting light weights. However, for heavy exercising like diving, jogging, running, swimming, and wrestling, you should be more patient (and wait for 6 months). Martial arts like Karate are also prohibited for at least 6 months after a nose surgery.

25: Can I do yoga after rhinoplasty surgery?

You can start to do yoga and attend your yoga classes after 2 weeks after your surgery. But, please be gentle and avoid the exercises and positions which put pressure on your head and neck.

26: Is cartilage grafting or nose implant placement a separate procedure from rhinoplasty?

No, bone graft or nasal implant is in fact a part of your rhinoplasty surgery when the surgeon needs to augment a patient’s nose or correct the nasal tip. So, they use a graft or insert an implant (in rare cases, implants are necessary) during the surgery, not in a separate stage.

27: Where are bone grafts obtained from in revision rhinoplasty?

Bone grafts can be harvested from the person’s ear or rib cartilage. If not enough cartilage is present, the surgeon might use alloplastic implants. However, autogenous grafts (grafts obtained from the person’s own body) are prefered to implants; because they can adapt better to the nasal tissues, have lower risk of rejection, and involve a shorter recovery.

28: Does my heart disease interfere with my nose surgery?

Patients who have a heart disorder are required to consult with a qualified doctor before surgery. Some tests like Electrocardiogram test should be taken and the results along with a letter from their cardiologist should be provided to the surgeon to evaluate whether he/she is an eligible rhinoplasty candidate.

For more information about the pre-op tests you may need to take before your nose job, please go to our rhinoplasty preparation guide.

29: Can I undergo rhinoplasty during my period (menstruation)?

Yes, menstruation period does not cause any adverse effects on the operation itself or the results.

30: Is it possible to change your nose shape by laser?

Laser rhinoplasty is a concept promoted by some clinics in order to advertise their services. However, no surgeon or doctor uses laser to perform a nose surgery. In some cases, laser can be used for the patients with a certain amount of fat under their skin to improve the tip of their nose.

31: Can rhinoplasty fix a broken nose? When should I undergo the surgery?

Broken noses can be repaired through a rhinoplasty. The person should wait between 4 to 6 months and then he/she can go for a corrective nose surgery. The procedure is almost similar to what is done in a cosmetic nose job. The surgeon either chooses to perform open rhinoplasty or closed rhinoplasty depending on the patient’s condition. If a broken nose is left untreated for years, it can also be corrected through surgery.

32: Can revision rhinoplasty improve nasal asymmetry?

Nasal asymmetry might not be 100% resolved after secondary nose job. But in most cases, the surgery can significantly improve uneven nasal features.

33: How soon after giving birth can I get my rhinoplasty done?

In general, women are recommended to wait for 2 to 6 months after childbirth to get through rhinoplasty. And, if they are breastfeeding and they’ve undergone a nose job, they should stop breastfeeding for at least 24 hours after the operation. Moreover, if your baby is only getting breast milk, it’s best to wait for 1 year after delivery to have rhinoplasty.

34: When can I get pregnant after getting rhinoplasty?

You can safely get pregnant after 6 months post operation. But, it’s better to wait for 1 year.

35: Can I get rhinoplasty while I’m pregnant?

Generally speaking, pregnant women are not allowed to have rhinoplasty during pregnancy. In some emergency cases like when the nose is broken, the person can get rhinoplasty under the supervision of her obstetrician.

36: How long after rhinoplasty can I get revision?

People with bony nose can undergo revision rhinoplasty 11 months after the primary surgery. Whereas, people with plump or fleshy nose should wait for 12 months before going for a secondary nose job.

37: Does having diabetes affect my rhinoplasty surgery?

People with well-controlled diabetes can undergo a nose surgery safely. The procedure is similar to that of an average patient. However, the recovery may be a little bit longer. Also, before your nose job, your surgeon may ask you to consult with an endocrinologist and provide his/her opinion for a better assessment

To understand more about your pre-operative assessment before your surgery, please read our guide to rhinoplasty preparation.

38: Can I wear glasses after my nose job?

After rhinoplasty, patients are advised not to use eyeglasses or sunglasses for a while. This is because heavy glasses may change the shape of your nose. So, it’s best to put them away for around 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery.

For a better understanding, please read our blog post: wearing eyeglasses after rhinoplasty.

39: How many times should I travel to Iran to get my rhinoplasty done?

You only need to have a 7-day trip to Iran to get your rhinoplasty done here. After your trip and treatment is scheduled, we will receive you at the airport. The next day, you will see your doctor and a thorough assessment will be done. Then, your surgery will be performed in one of the private hospitals of Tehran. Your doctor will visit you after the surgery and he/she will remove your nose cast after 6-7 days post operation. Then, you can return to your country and enjoy your new look. But, you can ask us any questions when you are back home and our support team will follow up your case until you are fully recovered.

For a more clear picture of your medical journey in Iran, we recommend you to watch: our Norwegian rhinoplasty patient video.

40: How long is recovery for revision rhinoplasty?

The recovery for secondary rhinoplasty is mostly similar to recovering from a primary nose job. Usually, it takes 6 to 7 days before the nasal splint is off and the final results can be observed after 6 to 12 months. You should follow your doctor’s instructions regarding postoperative care for a fast and effective recovery.

41: When can I get tip plasty after my primary nose surgery?

You can undergo a tip plasty (a surgery which is done to refine the patient’s nose tip) after 9 months after your nose job.

42: When can I have revision rhinoplasty?

A year after your primary nose job, you may have revision rhinoplasty if you are unsatisfied with the results of surgery.

43: Does cold weather affect the swelling after rhinoplasty?

Cold weather isn’t a big risk factor for swelling after nose surgery. The degree of swelling is more determined by the thickness of the skin.

44: Which season is best for rhinoplasty?

Generally, you can have rhinoplasty in any season, but some surgeons say that spring and summer are most suitable. Read more about the best time for rhinoplasty.

45: How long should I leave the tampon in?

Tampons or nasal packings are mainly used for the purpose of stabilizing the nasal septum and absorbing the bleeding. Typically, tampons should be remained in the nose for a period of 1-4 days, depending on different factors.

46: What is fleshy and bony nose?

Generally speaking, a fleshy nose is a nose with thick and oily skin and weak and soft cartilage. A bony nose is a nose with thin skin and strong cartilage. So the thicker the skin and smaller the cartilage, the more fleshy a nose is, and the thinner the skin and larger the cartilage, the more bony it is.

47: Can I have nasal polyp removal surgery and cosmetic nose surgery at the same time?

Yes, you can combine your cosmetic rhinoplasty with your nasal polyp removal surgery. The cost of having the two procedures simultaneously is lower than having them separately because there is one anesthesia.

48: Can I have both Lasik/Lasek eye surgery and rhinoplasty in one trip to Iran?

Yes, you may have both of the procedures at the same time if you could stay for 10-14 days in Iran.

49: What problems can be fixed with endoscopic nose surgery?

Endoscopic nose surgery is used for sinusitis, polypectomy, and removal of skull base tumors.